That is how I saw 2 models listed. I am not sure if it was a typo or not. I noticed afterward the other differing listings like you mentioned, that is why I changed my above post. Sorry if I confused anyone.

---------- Post added 06-15-16 at 02:31 PM ----------

Really though, the newer model would be my first choice even if I did lose a stop of light. I had the earlier model. and the not "silent" AF was one of the reasons I ended up trading it in on Amazon. It did take nice pictures, but to have something that will not startle wildlife or distract people at events (for example attending a ceremony), the attribute is almost invaluable. The way that the newer model behaves with the newer camera model(s), such as the K-S2, may be a communication virtue also.

---------- Post added 06-15-16 at 02:51 PM ----------

The 6.3 digit is right per my first post. Again, sorry if I accidentally misled anyone in the second post I corrected almost immediately.

I would want the advanced performance of the newer model. Quiet AF is a valuable thing to have if you are at events or doing wildlife shooting.

We don't even know how well this new AF works. "Advanced performance" in a single department that remains unverified by independent reviewers seems more like a guess and less assured than I would want were I spending my own money.

The 55-300RE isn't the same lens as the existing 55-300's from Pentax. Different optical formula, different controls layout, etc etc. It's like saying a Tamron 17-50 is the same as a Sigma 17-50 because they offer the same focal length coverage.

We don't even know how well this new AF works. "Advanced performance" in a single department that remains unverified by independent reviewers seems more like a guess and less assured than I would want were I spending my own money.

The 55-300RE isn't the same lens as the existing 55-300's from Pentax. Different optical formula, different controls layout, etc etc. It's like saying a Tamron 17-50 is the same as a Sigma 17-50 because they offer the same focal length coverage.

I can see your point, but I would not exclude the newer model and recommend the earlier models when it is going to have the quiet AF and the most recent Pentax technology.

We have both the HD 55-300 and the DA 50-200.
Both are fine budget lenses. I have been impressed with both.
Yes the 55-300 does have better reach but it also requires much better technique or a tripod for sharp images on the long end. My wife has a tough time with it handheld. That is why we got the 50-200 it is far lighter, smaller and much more forgiving when shooting handheld. Her percentage of keepers has gone way up with that lens.

We have both the HD 55-300 and the DA 50-200.
Both are fine budget lenses. I have been impressed with both.
Yes the 55-300 does have better reach but it also requires much better technique or a tripod for sharp images on the long end. My wife has a tough time with it handheld. That is why we got the 50-200 it is far lighter, smaller and much more forgiving when shooting handheld. Her percentage of keepers has gone way up with that lens.

Mark - I don't have the steadiest grip and I honestly never have a problem at the long end with the 55-300 handheld, so long as I have the shutter speed set accordingly - using the rule of "1 / (focal length x crop factor)"). In fact, with SR, I can happily shoot at much slower speeds, but this rule almost guarantees no problems for me. Are you keeping the shutter speed high enough for the focal length in use?

Mark - I don't have the steadiest grip and I honestly never have a problem at the long end with the 55-300 handheld, so long as I have the shutter speed set accordingly - using the rule of "1 / (focal length x crop factor)"). In fact, with SR, I can happily shoot at much slower speeds, but this rule almost guarantees no problems for me. Are you keeping the shutter speed high enough for the focal length in use?

I don't have a problem handheld with the 55-300. Then again I have been shooting for 35 years. My wife is new to it so I am sure it is a combination of things. I just piped in because the OP says he is new. I have just seen the struggles my wife has had and thought it may be worth mentioning.
To OP: Practice proper form when shooting with long glass, use a tripod when possible, breathing control is important, tuck your elbows into your sides, hold the lens in the palm of your support hand. (I have gone over all these things with my wife and they have helped but she still acts like the camera is a smartphone sometimes. )

Hi all, thanks for all the comments! It definetly seems to be the wisest choice to go for 50-300mm if I can but the missus and I are saving for our wedding I have since found it for £279.00 so I'll have to see her thoughts.

Originally posted by kh1234567890

If your budget is tight, I would go for a second-hand DA50-200 WR. As you seem to be in the UK, try posting a 'wanted' on PentaxUser forum.